Roger Federer pays rich tribute to Rafael Nadal on winning 21st Grand Slam title

Tennis
legend Roger Federer is “proud” of Rafael Nadal as the Spaniard won his 21st
Grand Slam title on Sunday at Rod Laver Arena in Melbourne. Nadal defeated Daniil Medvedev coming back from a
two-set down to beat the Russian in five hours and 24 minutes Australian Open final.

Also Read: Ashleigh Barty, Novak Djokovic nominated for Laureus World Sports Awards

“What
a match! To my friend and great rival Rafael Nadal. Heartfelt congratulations
on becoming the first man to win 21 Grand Slam titles,” Federer, who
skipped this year’s Australian Open, wrote in his Insta story.

“A
few months ago we were joking about both being on crutches. Amazing, never
underestimate a great champion. Your incredible work ethic, fighting skill and
dedication are an inspiration to me and countless others around the world.

Also Read: Is Rafael Nadal the GOAT in the world of tennis?

“I
am proud to share this era with you and honoured to play a role in pushing you
to achieve more. As you have done for me for the past 18 years. I am sure you
have more achievements ahead but for now, enjoy this one,” Federer added.

Winning
the Australian Open Grand Slam title, Nadal surpassed Federer and Novak
Djokovic’s 20 Grand Slam titles. Nadal now has 21 Majors to his credit.

Also Read: ‘Honored to play a role in pushing you to achieve more’: Roger Federer to Rafael Nadal

Federer
had gone for a record 21st title at Wimbledon in 2019, even holding
championship points before losing to Djokovic, while the world No. 1 attempted
the record at the US Open last year but fell at the final hurdle, losing to
Daniil Medvedev in the championship match.

At
the Australian Open, it was Nadal’s turn to go for the 21st Major on Sunday
against Medvedev, and he looked to be following in his rivals’ footsteps when
he went two sets and 2-3 0-40 down in the third.

Also Read: In Pics: Rafael Nadal wins Australian Open 2022, makes history with 21 Grand Slams

But
he made a stunning comeback in the Grand Slam final for the first time in his
career to win the match 2-6 6-7(5) 6-4 6-4 7-5 to lift the Australian Open
trophy for just the second time. Nadal first won the Australian Open in 2009.

Also Read: Watch Rafael Nadal create history at the Australian Open 2022

Federer
was one of the first players to congratulate his long-standing rival for his
achievement in an emotional Instagram story message and has now shared how he
felt watching the final for the first time.